What Makes Books Smell So Good?

I’m sure you will have, at some point in your life, walked into a book store or a library and breathed in that intoxicating smell that comes from old books. Sure, it’s a little bit musty sometimes but that’s how you know they’re truly vintage finds.

That said, I’m more of a new book fan myself. The crisp paper and the fresh ink, all clean and ready to be read; I love it. But where do the different smells come from? Chemicals of course. This infographic from Compound Interest explores the science behind these novelty scents. So the next time someone comments on the smell of some books you can throw a whole load of science at them, you’re welcome.